Health Newsletter

Stretching Exercises

Stretching Exercises

Stretching is an essential part of a complete exercise program. However, many people skip it, thinking they don't have enough time or it's not very important.

Here's Why It's Important:

Stretching offers many benefits, like improving your flexibility, range of motion, and circulation. Stretching may also help to lower your stress level. Advocates for stretching recommend the activity to reduce sports-related injuries, but not all studies have come to this conclusion. Researchers are still exploring how stretching impacts exercise.

Here's How to Stretch:

Two general types of stretching include dynamic stretching, where the joint is moved through full range, and static stretching, where the joint is held at end range of movement. To stretch your muscles you can either do individual stretching exercises for each muscle group or you can do total body stretching routines.

Include dynamic and static stretching. Dynamic stretching involves you stretching the muscle while moving. A walking lunge (without weights) is an example. Static stretching, on the other hand, is when you are stretching a muscle group while staying in one place (like a hamstring stretch).

Here are some common stretching mistakes to avoid:

Do not bounce during a stretch.

Do not stretch a muscle that is not warmed up.

If a stretch hurts, ease up. Do not strain or push a muscle too far.

Do not hold your breath while stretching.

Getting Started

For total body stretching, you can start by going to yoga or tai chi classes. To learn how to stretch specific muscle groups, you can buy a book on stretching or enlist the help of a certified athletic trainer. You can find a trainer at a local gym or through a referral from your doctor or a friend.

Before starting an exercise program, check with your doctor about any possible medical problems you may have that would limit your exercise program.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care
provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a
substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the
advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to
starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a
medical condition.